ICT's role in social-economic development

Tuesday, 17 November 2015 07:12

AfricaCom 2015 will discuss the role of ICT for inclusive social and economic development in Africa. (Image source: IICD)Governments across Africa are becoming increasingly aware that they have a key role to play in supporting telecommunications, digital and ICT development

In her 2015 budget speech, Hlengiwe Mkhize, deputy minister of South Africa’s Department of Telecommunications and Postal Services “Internet is a basic necessity for more than just business, education and service delivery but also for survival and individual self-respect."

Professor Mkhize will be one of many speakers at this year's AfricaCom taking place 2015 conference and will highlight the role of ICT for inclusive social and economic development in Africa.

“Connectivity has demonstrated its ability to ignite socio-economic development time and again. We need to expand existing infrastructure and introduce new technologies to connect our citizens, especially those in rural areas,” said Professor Mkhize.

Julie Rey-Gore, research director at Informa Telecoms & Media, noted that Mkhize’s keynote speech will discuss the economic and social importance of the ICT sector in Africa.